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Martijn is an accomplished public relations and integrated communications professional with broad multinational experience.

As a founder of Kiterocket, and previously, Impress Labs, he brings to the team more than 20 years of experience in public relations, journalism and marketing for the technology industry. He has advised C-suite executives at large global tech companies, helped fund and launch dozens of start-ups, and built up numerous client companies for successful acquisitions. In his role as Executive Chairman, Martijn draws on his extensive experience to provide strategic counsel to the agency’s technology clients and to lead Kiterocket’s business development efforts to drive agency growth.

Martijn holds degrees in International Business Management and Marketing from the Hanze Polytechnic University (the Netherlands) and Northern Arizona University. Prior to starting his own agency, Martijn spent nine years at Silicon Valley’s premier tech PR agency, Mathews & Clark Communications (later Positio), where he became a managing partner.

Q&A

Within Kiterocket, what are you known for?

Like most CEOs at small companies, I’m known for rolling up my sleeves and working in the trenches alongside my team. Problem-solving and people skills are my greatest strengths. On any given day I might negotiate a contract, brainstorm a marketing strategy, entertain an editor, mentor an employee or organize a staff outing.

What’s your proudest career moment or accomplishment to date?

There is no one single moment or accomplishment I can point to as my proudest. What I’m most proud of is knowing I helped to build and oversee a company that supports the lives of more than 35 employees and their families: the Kiterocket Nation. They inspire me to get up every morning.

What is it you love about your practice area, and why did you choose to focus on this industry expertise?

I didn’t choose the semiconductor industry; it chose me. I fell in love with it 20 years ago as an intern at Matthews & Clark and never looked back. While I find the technology and innovation fascinating and exciting, particularly for its impact on the world, what really drew me in was its global, yet tight-knit, community. New companies form, mergers and acquisitions happen, but the people and friendships remain the same.

How would your colleagues describe you in three words?

I’ve never been comfortable with turning the spotlight on myself; in PR it’s always about the client. So I asked my colleagues. What stands out: my integrity, creativity and commitment.

What inspires you to get up every morning?

It’s easy to get up every day to my wife, Trine; my three kids, Lauren, Lucas and Julian; and Charlie, our lovable yellow Lab. Guiding Kiterocket Nation forward inspires me to get in the car and drive to work.